A Fair to Remember

A poster created by artist Earle Duff used to promote the Century 21 World's Fair

PHOTO CREDIT: MOHAI (1965.3598.26.19)

Fifty years ago, Seattle threw a party for the world. The World’s Fair—called The Century 21 Exposition—was a celebration of Space Age innovation at a time of hope and futuristic yearnings. Our city, once regarded by many as a muddy Wild West outpost, was thrust into the world’s spotlight, suddenly becoming sophisticated and cutting edge. In 1962, everything about Seattle—our civic spaces, culture and very identity—was redefined. As Seattle magazine approaches its own 50th birthday, we take a look at the event—and the people—that forever changed Seattle.